The Egyptian Coordinating Committee of Rights and Freedom (ECRF) denounces Egyptian coup authorities' threat to close down the Nadeem Center for Rehabilitation of Victims of Violence and Torture.

The coup government's Ministry of Health sent special 'enforcement' units Tuesday (April 5) to Nadeem Center and endeavored to shut it down, without showing proper court order or decision documents.

In the end, the enforcement units went away without closing the Center. However, this obviously shows intransigence and arbitrariness on the part of the Ministry of Health towards the Center and its staff.

ECRF affirms that this is clear evidence of a general crack-down, that especially intensified in recent weeks, on all those working for human rights, whether individuals or organizations. Lawyers, journalists and human rights activists are being arrested unlawfully. Elastic, ambiguous and non-specific accusations and charges are being used to round up workers at human rights organizations. Clearly, this represents a serious threat to all those working for rights and freedoms in general.

ECRF stresses that the constant threat of closure of the Center, which documents matters related to the issues of torture and enforced disappearance, is a confirmation by the regime that it will persist in committing those violations and atrocities, and therefore does not want any rights NGO to voice any objection or support for human rights and detainees issues. This is a compound violation of the rights of both the detainees and those who seek to legally help them.

ECRF affirms solidarity with the Center and all its employees; and calls on all civil and human rights organizations to do the same.

ECRF would like to take this opportunity to express its deep gratitude and appreciation for the Center for the constant support it provides to victims of violence and torture. This is a noble and patriotic role and a great effort that deserves recognition and appreciation.